A/N: Sorry for any errors I missed. Given the size of this chapter, it... might be a lot.

"H-Hey, 31O! Wait up!" You ignored the familiar sound of 6O while you walked. Smoothly slipping past and between other Operators as they milled about the hallway. Every single one of them seemingly oblivious to their surroundings. They're engrossed in conversation amongst themselves or a tablet in their hands. It's not something that particularly bothered you, given present circumstance. Suddenly, a hand gripped your arm. Making you stop and turn to the culprit. 6O's wide eye's stared at you intently. There's a determined aura about her and her grip isn't tight. Just enough that you're sure that you wouldn't be able to wrench free from her. "We have to talk." You notice that the crowd is starting to thin out. So much so that you realize the two of you are not far from her room. In fact, your just about a short distance from it. "Look... ok, so, you can't just talk to Command like that. She'll yell at you for sure! You know that?" Oh, so that's what she wants to talk about. You won't lie, you somewhat hoped that she wanted to discuss something else. The disappointment you felt slowly seeped in while you stared at her. Ignoring the fact that she has yet to let go of your arm. 6O seemed to glance off to your right. Not entirely, just a quick flick from right then back to you. If you had to guess, you imagine that she wasn't fully looking behind you. Maybe it was something on her visual feed? You don't know. "Hey, I really need to get back to the Command Center. You can hang out in my room if you want and use my desk in there too. Once I have a chance, I'll swing by and we can talk more, ok?" 6O led you to her room as she spoke. When the door opened, you can't help but notice that her bed is unmade. There are books scattered all over the floor too. "S-Sorry about the mess. I'll clean it up when I get back, ok?" You elected not to say anything. Not out of spite. You were simply unsure if you could trust yourself not to say anything you might regret.

6O didn't say anything after that. In fact, as soon as she was done talking, she practically bolted. Leaving you alone in her cluttered room. When you looked at the mess, you can't help but wonder what had happened. Was there a fight in here? You shake your head. That's impossible. 6O isn't the type of person to start any arguments. Much less resort to physical violence of all things. You shake your head. Well, if you're going to be sitting here, then you might as well pick up a bit.

You spent the next few minutes doing exactly that. First you made her bed. Straightening her sheets then picking up a few of her discarded pillows. Setting them at the foot of her bed before turning your attention to the books. As you gathered a few into your arms, you noticed that none of them had a title on the cover. Nor on the spine of the book itself. Interest piqued, you opened one of the books. Only to blink when you realize that there weren't any words on the pages. Just... barcodes? There's numerous little black lines of varying sizes and shapes. Just like what you would see on a store product. Is this... how they actually read? For a moment, you smile at the though of 6O and every other android in YoRHa being made with a built in bar code reader. Just like the one's some store clerks might use. But, then again, that just might be how they're created. You guessed it made sense. Sort of. Well... maybe not. However, you're not going to dwell on this further. You stood and walked over to the book shelf. Gently sliding each peculiar book back onto the shelves as neatly as possible. Unfortunately, you've no choice but to set a few at an angle so that they're leaning against the others.

It's odd that you'd take the time to straighten 6O's room up. Especially given everything that has happened. But you're not going to go out of your way to be rude to 6O. If you're being honest, you still find it hard to be mad at her. That said, you think that straightening her room up would be a nice little olive branch. A chance for you to show that you're willing to at least hear her out. She certainly struck you as being earnest earlier. Did she run off while the Commander was giving her a scolding or lecture? That's certainly a thought.

"Attention all YoRHa Personnel: Emergency Directive 76-A-Epsilon is now in effect. A nuclear missile facility has been discovered inside the mission area. Repeat: Emergency Directive 76-A-Epsilon is now in effect. Operator Number 31, report to the Command Center immediately."

The announcement made you froze. Did it just say that a nuclear missile facility was discovered? You almost wanted to believe it's a ploy. But you shake your head. It's more likely that it really is a nuclear facility. The Commander probably wants your take on what to do. That in mind, you left 6O's room and began walking down the hall to the Command Center. You don't know what this 'Emergency Directive 76-A-Epsilon' is. Though, if you had to guess, it's probably something in regard to intercepting launched nukes. The thought made you wonder if the Bunker has any stationary defenses. Maybe it's own store of missiles to shoot down Machine's that break atmosphere. Actually... now that you thought about it, that's unlikely. Flight Units are in enough abundance, you hoped, that it'd be unnecessary to have stationary defenses.

When you entered the Command Center, you notice that the floor to ceiling monitor is alight with numerous read outs. The profile pictures, along with minor critical info displayed next to them, is steadily scrolling upward. Allowing for additional pictures of deployed YoRHa troops to be displayed. The next is that the map is now showing a specific place in question. You're unable to discern what. But it looks like a compound of sorts. With other buildings surrounding it. When you step onto the lift to take you to the bottom floor, you lock eyes with the Commander. She's watching you intently. It's enough to make you shift uncomfortably and look away. Stare at anything but her as you cross your arms. "Number 31." The Commander said when the lift slowed to a stop. You glance at her, disregarding the fact that she chose to meet you rather than wait where she stood earlier.

"Can I help you with something, Commander? I doubt there's anything I can tell you if it's about this nuclear facility you found." You say in a surprisingly calm tone. If the Commander is surprised by your tone, she doesn't show it. Only gesture for you to follow her as she approached the center of the floor. When you follow, you can't help but feel small as you look up at the floor to ceiling monitor. It's... massive. Seemingly more so as you approach. Like you stood before a giant that loomed over you. Easily capable of reaching the heavens.

"A Scanner team that I dispatched to the facility has found more data regarding you. This data was found in the underground facility that Attacker 2 mentioned. However, we've discovered evidence that this facility is, in fact, a Nuclear Missile Silo." You don't know what to say in response to the Commander's hushed words. Even as you slowed to a stop in front of the small console she stood next to. It's small projected screen just barely illuminated the keyboard under it. Angled in such a way to allow ease of access without any discomfort. "It would appear that you, Number 31, was once a member of the security personnel at the facility. The picture Attacker 2 found of you is part of a duty roster." You raise an eyebrow in confusion. It didn't make sense. Did Command just say you were-

Flashes of memory dominated your minds eye. There's too much for you to get an accurate glimpse at. But the feelings and impressions you felt were real. An all pervading sense of anxiousness. Worry and fear of something bad happening. At one point, you think you feel a sense of... familiarity, with one memory. It's a memory of standing in a hallway. But... it's fuzzy. You shake your head to dispel the recollection. Now isn't the time to dwell on vague memories.

"Given your apparent affiliation, I'd like to-"

"What ever it is that you're asking, I can't help you, Commander. I don't remember anything." You say, interrupting the blonde woman mid-sentence. As expected, you can feel a sense of dismay radiate off the Commander. Even if it's only for a brief moment. You know for certain that she's not enthused to hear you say that. "I'm not saying that I'm unwilling to help. What I'm saying that I, quite literally, don't remember anything about that place. To be honest, I find it hard to believe I'd ever work at a place like that." You make a gesture to the floor to ceiling monitor. As if doing so would help place emphasis on your words. For what ever good it did. "I'll help as best I can, Commander, given the present circumstance. But I'm afraid that I can't provide anything useful intelligence-wise to you." The assurance seemed to put the Commander at ease. You can tell that her gaze softened a little at your statement.

The Commander turned to look at the floor to ceiling monitor. Expression devoid of any emotion while she seemed to study the massive display. "All Units are to converge on the facility. Engage the Machines on sight!" She suddenly yelled. The room suddenly engulfed in a loud flurry of activity as occupants worked to carry out the command. "Number 31, if you are not busy, I'd like for you to return to your station. Number 7 is in need of an Operator. And it will help if you could work with Number 6 and 21 to find available data regarding this facility we've discovered." You're not sure what to say to the Commander. Giving you orders so soon after having an argument with her? It's almost like she's acting as though nothing had happened in the first place. You cross your arms and look off to your right. Idly watching a group of armored YoRHa Units receive what looked like an address from their captain. You feel annoyed at the Commanders little act. At the same time, you can't deny that a distraction would be nice. But...

"Don't think that this means I've forgiven you, Commander. I'm still angry with you." You say after you relented. Deep down, you wanted to say no. But you know that, in doing so, it'll take that much longer to resolve the issue down planet-side. Being difficult would only make matters worse. As well as potentially be a reason that the Commander could use against you. With little fanfare, you brought your left hand up to your chest, palm facing you, and looked the Commander in the eye. "Glory to Mankind." The action is more for show than anything. A small effort to keep your cover intact. When the Commander nodded, you turned and walked back to the lift. The small railing that lined the wall parted. Allowing you an opening to step aboard. When the lift began to raise into the air, bringing you back to the top level, you spy 6O staring you down from her station. Peering at you from behind her veil. It's impossible to tell what she's working on. You get the feeling that she's going to bombard you with questions the moment you sat down at your station.

Well... in all fairness, you weren't entirely wrong. When you sat down, 6O slowly rose to her feet. Both hands firmly planted on both sides of her keyboard. As if she were pushing herself up. You looked up at her with a raised eyebrow when she stopped next to your station. Peering down at you with curiosity. "Are you..." She trailed off, the unspoken hung in the air between the two of you like a bad omen. As if she's almost afraid to say anything.

"I'm helping with the mission and that's it. Command wants me to help you and 21O find any good data on the underground nuclear facility." You say in a curt tone. Quick to dispel the bad atmosphere that permeated the air. It felt stifling. Needless to say, you couldn't speak fast enough. "Before you ask, I know that I've apparently been there before. But I've no memory of ever being there." You added quickly. The fact that 6O might jump to the conclusion that it would be an easy task wasn't lost on you. Unfortunately, it seemed that the intent of your statement wasn't perceived as you wanted.

6O's demeanor visibly fell. She seemed to deflate inwardly and you could almost see her frown through her veil. "O-Oh, right, that... that makes sense." 6O replied and looked away. Out of curiosity, you glanced over towards 21O's station. The senior Operator is watching you with a steady gaze. As if she could actually understand what the two of you were saying. "I should go check on 2B." 6O suddenly said, drawing your attention back to her just before she turned her back to you and hurried to her station.

YoRHa Operations Chat V 13.9

[… Establishing Secure Connection …]

[… Secure Connection Established …]

[… Scanning Data Packets …]

YoRHa, for the Glory of Mankind

Alert: Bunker Security has been elevated to threat level - BLACK. All YoRHa Operators must follow Emergency Directive 76-A-Epsilon.

Participating Units:

- Operator 21O

- Operator 31O

Operator 21O: While I'm aware of the current circumstance, I've elected to ignore protocol so that we might have this conversation. It's imperative that you listen to what I have to say.

You blink and stare at the screen in front of you. Perplexed by the forced opening of this chat as well as 21O's admittance to ignoring the rules. A quick glance at your surroundings confirmed that no one is watching over your shoulder. When you looked back down, you notice that 21O had sent another message.

Operator 21O: Directive 76-A-Epsilon is in effect. No one is going to be looking in on your work. There is no need to be cautious.

Operator 31O: Considering what has happened this morning, I find that a little hard to believe.

Operator 21O: Your irritation is noted. However, while I believe it would be better to stay out of this, there is something you should know.

Operator 31O: … I'm listening.

Operator 21O: Command forwarded me a transcript of your conversation with her. After reviewing the contents, I feel compelled to inform you that Command has been telling the truth - You attempted to intervene between Attacker Number 2 and the Commander. As is to be expected, Attacker 2 made no attempt to protect you when 'Jackass' attempted to eliminate you.

Operator 31O: 'As is to be expected'?

Operator 21O: YoRHa Units who go rogue typically do so due to a fault in their programming or hardware. Loyalty to Mankind and YoRHa is a core part of all YoRHa OS Chip designs. Had A2 not been rogue, she would have placed herself in the path of the bullet. The Attacker Series has top of the line visual sensors. While it's not perfect, as well as outdated, is wasn't impossible to keep you from being shot.

Operator 21O: In the event that my deduction of your knowledge is wrong - the Resistance and YoRHa use vastly different production methods and designs for their Combat Models. While I will not pretend to know/understand Jackass' reasoning, it should be expected that she would make a critical error in judgement. The fact that she was even able to attack you in the first place is evident of not only faulty Resistance production methods but also OS Chip design.

Operator 31O: Are you saying what I think your saying?

Operator 21O: Yes, I am. The Resistance forwent implementing Human Safety Precautions. Unfortunately, the data pertaining to their official reasoning has long since been lost. But I theorize that the decision had been made in the effort of speeding along mass production. As well as make room to allow for upgrading the combat adaptability and individual reasoning of Resistance Combat Units.

Operator 21O: I am aware that you may not believe any of this. If it helps, I am willing to take you to my room so that 9S and I may present the data in person. But I should forewarn you - We've spent the majority of the time during your recovery investigating the incident.

Operator 31O: You've... been 'investigating'?

Operator 21O: Command ordered everyone to re-enforce Bunker Security then tasked a team with fixing her corrupted memories. It was her belief that is all that was needed. It... didn't feel right to simply leave the matter alone. So, we've been investigating the incident without Command's authorization.

You found it hard to believe 21O. But, at the same time, doing all this is definitely something you could see her doing. 21O has a near impeccable work ethic. That said, it's possible she's telling the truth. You sat back with yours arms crossed. Staring hard at the screen while mulling over what she's just told you. This... is a little hard to digest. Devola and Popola probably were suspicious that something like that would happen. Which is probably why they asked for there to be bullet proof glass.

Operator 31O: Thank you for telling me this. It's a lot to process.

Operator 21O: I imagine that 6O attempted to explain herself when you found out. She spent a lot of her free time discussing her feelings with me. It would be wise to indulge her request to speak with you at a later time.

Operator 31O: I will.

[… Operator 6O has entered the Chat …]

Operator 6O: We've got a problem. Like, a really bad problem.

Operator 21O: What is it?

Operator 6O: 31O is really, really, mad. At me.

Operator 31O: I'm not mad at you, 6O.

Operator 6O: Oh... you're in this chat?

Operator 31O: We can talk about this later. Right now, we need to focus on the more pressing issue.

Operator 21O: I agree.

Operator 6O: So, we're still going to have that talk later?

Operator 31O: Yes.

Operator 6O: Ok!

Operator 21O: We know that the underground facility has been compromised by the Machines. There are already combat reports coming in from the teams that have secured the reopened entrance. At present, they are no concern.

Operator 6O: 2B says that she's already on her way. But it'll be a while since she doesn't have 9S to back her up. Apparently, the Machines really don't want us getting to that place.

Operator 31O: I'll check in with 7D. Maybe she and her group can help.

When you turn your attention to the keyboard. Gloved hands already pressing the shift button and space bar - the command to contact 7D. At first, you expected to see an alert stating the command didn't follow through. But your surprised to find a new window pop up. The chat you had been in not moments ago slid to the left of the screen then downsized. Allowing you a near full screen view of a 3D rendition of the YoRHa insignia. Seconds passed before the logo disappeared. Quickly replaced by a full view of 7D's helmeted head and shoulders. It looks like she's standing in an empty room. Just behind her, you think you can see one of her squad. But the outline is too blurry to fully tell. Merely a black and orange blob to the left of her head. Accompanied by a smaller, orange blob. No doubt her Pod. "Operator 31O to 7D, come in. Do you read me?" You spoke in a professional tone. Yet you're unable to keep the urgency from your voice.

It's impossible to tell what 7D is feeling. The full face helmet rendered any attempt utterly impossible. "Affirmative, go ahead." Her voice is completely emotionless. When her filtered voice reaches your ears, you feel like you're talking to robot and not an Android. You have to bite your lip in order to hold back the observation-Tell her exactly what you're thinking. You push the urge to the back of your mind. You need to-Before you can ask 7D where she is, you spy a new semi-transparent window open in the upper right hand corner. It displayed a readout. Curious, you turn to look at it fully.

Black Box Signal Strength - [Strong]

Black Box Signal Location - [City Ruins Outskirts]

Black Box Temperature - [Normal]

Black Box Internal Pressure - [Normal]

"Operator?" 7D's filtered voice brought you back to reality. You blink and shake your head before looking back at her. Naturally, she's still wearing that damned helmet. A small part of you wonders if maybe she's keeping the helmet on just to make it hard on you. But you know that's not true. She's wearing her helmet because she's in the middle of a combat zone. It's only natural that she'd keep it on.

"7D, we're getting reports that the Machines are converging on the location of the recently unearthed facility. Are you in a position to assist 2B in helping secure the facility? She's making her way there now but it's taking time." You see 7D look around her. Like she heard something and is trying to find the source. When she looks back at you, there's a sinking feeling that she's going to say no. "I don't have all the intel but it sounds like she's outnumbered. Moreover, Command has asked for us to gather intel on the facility itself. I know that it's a Scanners job to gather intel information. But... I'd feel a lot better if it were someone I trust poking around in a place that I've - well, I'd feel better if it were you down there." You can tell right away that your words threw 7D for a loop. It's obvious at a glance. Plus, judging by her repeated false starts, she has no clue what to say.

There was a commotion off screen. It sounded like someone in her squad addressed her. Perhaps teasing her or something along those lines. Thankfully, 7D seemed to regain her composure. The D Unit shook her head and looked back at you. "We're securing the building for the main force. But we'll be making our way there as soon as we're finished. Tell her to stay put and wait for us. Shouldn't be longer than 10 minutes. This-" 7D paused and looked around, "- this place is pretty big. Should be perfect." You can't help but smile. There's no real concrete evidence. But you get the feeling that 7D is enjoying herself a little. It's just a hunch. Nothing more than a simple thought.

"... Be sure to take care of yourself, 7D. I would like it if you came back in one piece so I can apologize, alright?" 7D is quiet when you speak. You think that she's probably unsure of what to say. Not that you blame her. It's not hard to tell that she's probably confused. "A=Anyway... I need to get back to work. 31O, out." You press the backspace bar and the display of 7D disappeared. Almost immediately, the window for the YoRHa Chat replaced it. However, it looked like 21O and 6O were in a heated conversation while you were speaking with 7D.

Operator 21O: You're going to attempt to reconcile?

Operator 6O: I have to!

Operator 21O: Have you considered that your feelings for her are misplaced? Perhaps misunderstood?

Operator 6O: They're not! I told her that I was just following orders. But I don't think she really understood. Now that I think about it, I don't think she even realizes how compelling orders are for us. I mean, it's not like we can just ignore Command when she gives an order. That basically violates the very nature of who we are!

Operator 21O: Maybe she doesn't. However, she is a Human. We can never know what our Creators are thinking. All of our efforts to study them have shown this. For all we know, it's theoretically possible that she is aware. Yet is choosing to feign ignorance. Although it is also plausible that she truly doesn't know. Therefore, my point is that you're being a 'moron' as the Humans would say.

Operator 6O: Alright, alright, I get it. Geez...

Operator 21O: 6O, I'm going to tell you this for your own good. Attempting to have a relationship with her right now is a horrible idea. However, it is not my place to tell you what to do. Attempt to reconcile if you wish. But remember that she likely believes we're deliberately lying to her for nothing more than the ability to do so. Therefore, be careful.

Technically speaking, 21O does have a point. You did somewhat think that. But, now that you've had a few minutes, you realize that maybe you overreacted a bit. Which meant that you should probably intervene. Set the record straight before they jump to any conclusions. Without further incentive, you started typing.

Operator 31O: I don't necessarily believe that. It's more like I overreacted. You don't just keep something like me being asleep for so long a secret. That's typically something you tell them not long after they wake up. Regardless of your concern.

Operator 6O: Oh, hey, 31O. How's 7D doing?

Operator 31O: 7D and her squad are securing a foothold for the main body of YoRHa forces. Once they're done, they'll move to help 2B. That said, 7D says to tell 2B to stay put until they're done.

Operator 21O: Now that we've addressed that issue. We need to move on to the next - The facility itself.

Operator 6O: We have no map data on the place at all. It's located in the absolute WORST area possible, has absolutely no chance of supporting an Access Point, potentially houses super old weapons of mass destruction that likely still pose extreme danger. Even to all of us up here on the Bunker. And, worst of all, it is likely infested with Machine Lifeforms.

Operator 6O: I think that's plenty of data already. Don't you think?

Operator 21O: Please try to focus, 6O.

Operator 6O: Hey, 31O, I have a question.

Operator 31O: Yes?

Operator 6O: Why would you design weapons like those missiles?

Operator 31O: That... isn't something you should ask me. Personally, guns are more than enough as is. Everything further than that is just plain overkill.

[… WARNING: SEISMIC ACTIVITY DETECTED WITHIN THE MISSION AREA ...]

[… ALERT: NEW MACHINES ENTERING THE MISSION AREA ...]

[… ALERT: COMBAT DATA PACKETS UPLOADING TO SERVER ...]

Operator 21O: These data packets indicate the Machines are coming from underground. This changes things. 6O, warn 2B immediately. Tell her that 9S will be on his way to join her in a moment.

[… Operator 6O has left the chat ...]

Operator 21O: I suggest you warn 7D and advise her to move to the Resistance Camp. They'll need immediate support if the Machines are coming from underground. Additionally, you'll want to contact the Resistance and inform them of her squad's impending arrival. I've finished transferring an update to your console. All you need to do is type: 'Command' followed by what you want. It'll make completing your tasks easier.

You're unable to stop the wide smile on your lips. Finally, you've been given a way to really do something. Before everything happened, you had simply made do with entering special phrases that 6O had told you about. But now... now, you were given something simple that could allow you to do so much. Without further ado, you decided to test this update by doing exactly what 21O advised. The klick-klack of the keyboard under your fingertips drowned under the dull din of numerous keyboards in use in the background. When the familiar face of 7D flashed across the screen of your console, you paused and looked at her. Noting that she had forewent her helmet for some reason. Black grime smudged across the left side of her face. Like a grenade had gone off to her immediate left. "Operator 31O to 7D. I have an emergency update!" 7D almost immediately perked up at the sound of your panicked tone. She reached behind her head, seemingly to tighten her Combat Visor, and lowered her hands. You can feel her intent stare but you dismissed it. "There's been some seismic activity - you probably felt it just now - and we're recieving reports of new Machine signals in the area! The Machines have brought reinforcements. Disregard your orders to assist 2B and take your group to the Resistance Camp. They'll need assistance if the Machines are coming up from underground." 7D nodded just as the signal abruptly cut out. You frowned and was about to attempt to call her again when movement caught your eye.

"Hey, did you just lose your signal with 7D?" You looked up when you heard 6O's voice. Naturally, it's like she already knew your answer. "I'm going to go brief the Commander. Be right back." You nodded at her and stared blankly at your screen. With the link to the planet cut, you didn't know what to do. Yes, it could be cause for concern. But you imagined that the issue is likely due to the Machines or maybe a technical fault. Perhaps even the result of a fragment of space debris slamming into one of the satellites. Regardless, there's not much you could do in the grand scheme of things. Outside of simply waiting or -

"Uh oh, looks like 6O is going to get yelled at again." The voice came from behind you. Followed soon after by two sets of quite laughter. When you look behind you, the two Operators in question are standing a bit away from you. Hidden somewhat by the darkness the hung under the platform above them. "Think we'll get to-"

Ok... you needed to intervene. They clearly intend to do nothing more than talk bad about 6O. So, best to get up and confront them now before 6O overhears them. "Just so you know, we've both lost contact with our Assigned Units. 6O isn't off to 'get yelled at'. She went to go brief the Commander about the situation. Given the recent events, I'm fairly certain that something like that would be better told in person. Wouldn't you both agree?" In all honesty, you really didn't intend to let your voice be that loud. Which was, in fact, loud enough to draw the ire of nearby Operators. "If you've got time to talk like that about 6O, then you definitely have time to pull your own weight. I'm willing to bet the girls up in the hangars could use a hand." You put both hands on your hips while you glared at them. Just who did they think they were talking like that behind 6O's back? It annoyed you to no end. Just what right did they think they have?

The two nameless Operators looked at each other. Then they looked at you. Their demeanor that of apparent confusion. Which only served to annoy you even further. Minutes passed while you continued to glare at them. Almost daring them to attempt to defend themselves. However, they just shook their head and walked past you. One of them made no effort to avoid you and allowed their shoulder to brush past you. The intent was obvious. But you just shook your head and let it slide.

"Heeeeey, 31O, that was super cool of you to defend 6O like that. Does that mean that you and 6O are dating? When did you start? Who asked first?" You don't need to know rocket science to understand that it's 88O talking. As well as know that it's 88O who just almost tackled you from behind. There's a teasing undertone to her voice. "Come on, don't leave a girl in suspense!" She added after you managed to duck out of her hug and look at her.

"N-No, we're not dating, 88O!" You say while just barely managing to keep your voice from stuttering too much. Just by looking at 88O you can see that she's enjoying herself. Her gaze is alight with amusement. "I was just getting on them for talking crap about 6O. It was annoying to hear them talking like that." You folded your arms and shook your head. Really, their attitude was just outright pathetic.

88O, to your surprise, seemed to agree. She nodded in acknowledgement and mirrored your posture. "Those two like to mock everyone who gets in trouble. But they're pretty quick to leave if someone calls them out. I think it has to do with their personality type more than anything. They don't just sit around, so there's that." It sounded like 88O has a history with them. Whether it was good or bad is up for debate. Especially since she admitted that last bit. However, you have the feeling that you're about to hear about that history. "I've had a few run-ins with them back when I transferred to being an Operator." Wait... did she just... no, she couldn't have. You raise an eyebrow in confusion and uncross your arms. The action elicited a short laugh from the Operator. "Yeah, I used to be a Battler. But requested a transfer after a close call. I had an emergency deployment and didn't have a chance to back up my data. A Machine caught me by surprise and nearly crushed my Black Box. Decided to be an Operator and that was that." 88O sounded rather bitter just then. It... is probably a touchy subject. Best not broach the topic in the future.

"Well I'm surprised. I never would've figured you to have been a B unit before. The one's I've met, granted it's only been 2B - well, never mind." You decide to change the subject. Fast. "Anyway, I guess you lost contact with your Assigned Unit too?" While you spoke, you made a small gesture with your right hand. There was no real intention for the gesture. Merely an idle gesture with no real thought behind it.

"Yeah... though I'm not really concerned. She made a report just before and said that there were no Machines in sight; She's doing patrol on the coast of the City Ruins. There's never any combat there." 88O replied flippantly. If you had to take a guess, this might not be her first time being asked to handle the coastal ruins. "I need to get back to work. Just give me a call if you need anything." With that, 88O strode past you and sat back at her station. All but immediately resuming her work as she did. For a moment, you can't help but admire the ability to do that. To be able to resume such intricate and complicated work the moment she sat down. Without so much as a second glance at the screen for good measure.

You shake your head and walk back to your station. The Commander asked for a collection of all available data that might help. While you wait for word of what happened to your connection, it would be good to - "Hey... do you think we could have that talk now?" You glance back and see 6O standing behind you. She looked nervous. Something that gave you cause for concern. "Command said that one of our satellites went down. Since it'll be a while before we can re-establish communications. Do you think we could have that talk?"

A/N: Thanks for reading and bearing with me. Sorry for being all over the place.

Next chapter: A totally innocent conversation with 6O. With equally, totally, innocent handholding(?)

To AL: For starters, thanks for reviewing. It really means a lot! :)

So, Life of an Operator is not going to follow the main events of the story. That said, there will be no Machine attack on the Bunker whatsoever. This fic and Beautiful world will follow different storylines all together. But will feature 'some' main events from the game itself. Ie: The goliath attack on the city center, the amusement park, pascal, etc. But major events such as the fall of YoRHa, the red girls, adam and eve, wont happen at all. In short, chapter 20 is the official end of the world building I am aiming for. From here on there will be mentions of minor/semi-major events like the goliath attack. But it'll mostly be the legitimate storyline and the reader/characters direct involvement with the story I wish to tell.

Thanks for reading and I hope you're doing well to! Don't forget to wash your hands and wear a mask in public! (~˘▾˘)~